Garment system providing biometric monitoring

ABSTRACT

A garment (e.g., a shirt) for monitoring biometric properties of the wearer of the garment is disclosed. The garment may include sensors for monitoring or assessing biometric properties such as, but not limited to, respiration properties, heart properties, and motion properties. These properties may be assessed together to provide an assessment of vital signs and body position (e.g., three-dimensional body position) of the wearer of the garment.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/049,114, filed on Jul. 30, 2018, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/906,046, filed on Feb. 27, 2018,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/431,495(now U.S. Pat. No. 9,918,674 issued on Mar. 20, 2018), filed on Feb. 13,2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/931,545 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,566,033 issued on Feb. 14, 2017), filedon Nov. 3, 2015, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/074,521, filed on Nov. 3, 2014, all of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a garment system. Certainembodiments disclosed herein relate to a garment system for monitoringbiometric information including vital signs and body motion.

Description of the Relevant Art

Wearable technology has become an increasingly more common resource forusers to track and monitor their biometric data during physical activityand/or day-to-day activity. Devices such as wristbands, glasses, andwatches may function to gather biometric data from an individual's bodysuch as heart rate, force on a body, acceleration of a body, etc. Thesedevices, however, may not be capable of tracking or generating a complexprofile of a user's biometric data in combination with movement and bodyposition of the user. Thus, there is still a need for a system (e.g., agarment system) that is capable of generating such data for real-timeanalysis of an individual's condition.

SUMMARY

In certain embodiments, a system includes a fabric for being worn on abody of a wearer. The fabric may include comprises one or more layerswith at least one layer of fabric including a conductive elasticmaterial. A plurality of respiratory monitoring sensors may beintegrated in the fabric. At least two respiratory monitoring sensorsmay be coupled with at least a portion of the conductive elasticmaterial. The at least two respiratory monitoring sensors may beconfigured to assess a resistance of the portion of the conductiveelastic material between the at least two respiratory monitoringsensors. One or more inertial measurement units may be integrated in thefabric. The inertial measurement units may be configured to assess aphysical position of the body of the wearer in a three-dimensionalspace. One or more heart rate monitors may be integrated in the fabric.The heart rate monitors may be configured to assess one or moreproperties associated with a heart of the wearer. A processor may beintegrated in the fabric. The processor may be configured to receivedata from the respiratory monitoring sensors, the inertial measurementunits, and the heart rate monitors. The processor may be configured toassess one or more vital signs and a body position of the wearer of thefabric using the received data.

In certain embodiments, a method includes receiving, in a processorintegrated in a fabric, data from a plurality of respiratory monitoringsensors integrated in the fabric. At least two respiratory monitoringsensors may be coupled with at least a portion of a conductive elasticmaterial. The data from the respiratory monitoring sensors may include aresistance of the portion of the conductive elastic material between theat least two respiratory monitoring sensors. The fabric may include oneor more layers with at least one layer of fabric including theconductive elastic material. Data from one or more inertial measurementunits integrated in the fabric may be received in the processor. Thedata from the inertial measurement units may include a physical positionof the body of the wearer in a three-dimensional space. Data from one ormore heart rate monitors integrated in the fabric may be received in theprocessor. The data from the heart rate monitors may include one or moreproperties associated with a heart of the wearer. The processor mayassess one or more vital signs and a body position of the wearer of thefabric using the data received from the respiratory monitoring sensors,the data received from the inertial measurement units, and the datareceived from the heart rate monitors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of the methods and apparatus described hereinwill be more Fully appreciated by reference to the following detaileddescription of presently preferred but nonetheless illustrativeembodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings inwhich:

FIG. 1 depicts an anterior view representation of an embodiment of agarment system.

FIG. 2 depicts a posterior view representation of the embodiment of agarment system.

FIG. 3 displays an embodiment of a method.

FIG. 4 displays a diagram depicting an embodiment of a wired frameworkof a garment system.

FIG. 5 displays a diagram of an embodiment of a kinetic power modulesetup.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a respiratory monitor sub-system.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a respiratory monitorsub-system.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a strain detection unit.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of a strain detection unit.

FIG. 10 displays a side layer view of an embodiment of a multi-layerelastic conductive fabric utilized in a garment body.

FIG. 11 displays a front view of an embodiment of a respiratorymonitoring system engrained within a garment body.

FIG. 12 displays an embodiment of a method for monitoring bodyfunctions.

FIG. 13 depicts an anterior view representation of another embodiment ofa garment system.

FIG. 14 depicts a posterior view representation of another embodiment ofa garment system.

FIG. 15 depicts a side view of an embodiment of a skeleton with aposture characteristic.

FIG. 16 depicts a side view of an embodiment of a skeleton with analternative posture characteristic.

FIG. 17 displays an alternative embodiment of a method for collectingdata.

FIG. 18 displays an embodiment of a method for monitoring breathing.

FIG. 19 depicts an anterior view representation of another embodiment ofa garment system.

FIG. 20 depicts a posterior view representation of another embodiment ofa garment system.

FIG. 21 depicts a side view representation of another embodiment of agarment system.

FIG. 22 depicts an exploded view representation of an embodiment of afluid delivery system.

FIG. 23 depicts a representation of an alternative embodiment of apiston portion.

FIG. 24 depicts a representation of an embodiment of a port.

FIG. 25 depicts a flowchart of an embodiment of a control method using agarment system.

FIG. 26 depicts a representation of an embodiment of conditions neededfor different signal levels.

FIG. 27 depicts an anterior view representation of yet anotherembodiment of a garment system.

FIG. 28 depicts a posterior view representation of yet anotherembodiment of a garment system.

FIG. 29 depicts a side view representation of yet another embodiment ofa garment system.

FIG. 30 depicts a block diagram of one embodiment of an exemplarycomputer system.

FIG. 31 depicts a block diagram of one embodiment of a computeraccessible storage medium.

While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way ofexample in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. Itshould be understood, however, that the drawings and detaileddescription thereto are not intended to limit the disclosure to theparticular form illustrated, but on the contrary, the intention is tocover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within thespirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appendedclaims. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes onlyand are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description. Asused throughout this application, the word “may” is used in a permissivesense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatorysense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include,” “including,”and “includes” mean including, but not limited to. Additionally, as usedin this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”,“an”, and “the” include singular and plural referents unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the word “may” is usedthroughout this application in a permissive sense (i.e., having thepotential to, being able to), not in a mandatory sense (i.e., must). Theterm “include,” and derivations thereof, mean “including, but notlimited to.” The term “coupled” means directly or indirectly connected.

Various units, circuits, or other components may be described as“configured to” perform a task or tasks. In such contexts, “configuredto” is a broad recitation of structure generally meaning “havingstructure that” performs the task or tasks during operation. As such,the unit/circuit/component can be configured to perform the task evenwhen the unit/circuit/component is not currently on. Similarly, variousunits/circuits/components may be described as performing a task ortasks, for convenience in the description. Such descriptions should beinterpreted as including the phrase “configured to.” Reciting aunit/circuit/component that is configured to perform one or more tasksis expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112 (0 interpretationfor that unit/circuit/component.

The scope of the present disclosure includes any feature or combinationof features disclosed herein (either explicitly or implicitly), or anygeneralization thereof, whether or not it mitigates any or all of theproblems addressed herein. Accordingly, new claims may be formulatedduring prosecution of this application (or an application claimingpriority thereto) to any such combination of features. In particular,with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claimsmay be combined with those of the independent claims and features fromrespective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate mannerand not merely in the specific combinations enumerated in the appendedclaims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The following examples are included to demonstrate preferredembodiments. It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art thatthe techniques disclosed in the examples which follow representtechniques discovered by the inventor to function well in the practiceof the disclosed embodiments, and thus can be considered to constitutepreferred modes for its practice. However, those of skill in the artshould, in light of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changescan be made in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and stillobtain a like or similar result without departing from the spirit andscope of the disclosed embodiments.

This specification includes references to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment.” The appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “inan embodiment” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, althoughembodiments that include any combination of the features are generallycontemplated, unless expressly disclaimed herein. Particular features,structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable mannerconsistent with this disclosure.

FIG. 1 depicts an anterior view representation of an embodiment ofgarment system 50. FIG. 2 depicts a posterior view representation of theembodiment of garment system 50. In certain embodiments, garment system50 includes body 52. Body 52 may be, for example, a shirt body or anyother garment wearable by a user (e.g., a person or an animal) such asan arm sleeve, a leg sleeve, or a torso sleeve. In certain embodiments,garment body 52 is constructed of a quick dry material with antistaticand anti-microbial properties. In some embodiments, garment body 52 isform fitting (athletic fit) around a portion of the user's (wearer'sbody). For example, garment body 52 may include one or more fabriclayers with elastic fibers similar to spandex. Garment body 52 mayinclude a plurality of fabrics or yarns arranged in a woven and/or aknit pattern.

Garment body 52 may house a number of electronic components eitherwithin or on the garment structure. In some embodiments, garment body 52is made of a quick dry elastic polymer blend that provides support tothe garment body wearer. Garment body 52 may include welded non-chafingseams and/or other features that provide a stable platform for biometricsensors, GPS, and processors on the garment body. Fit of garment body 52may be athletic, similar to, in certain embodiments, an undershirt wornby a soldier or professional football player. In some embodiments,garment body 52 includes fabric enhancements such as, but not limitedto, improved moisture wicking, improved thermal management, and/ormuscle group support.

In embodiments with garment body 52 being a shirt body, the garment bodymay be made available in a number of sizes similar to, but not limitedto, standard American sizing. For example, garment body 52 may beavailable in full and half sizes ranging from size 3 to size 8. A size 3may be the equivalent of an extra, extra small (XXS) and an 8 may besimilar to an extra, extra, extra large (XXXL). In certain embodiments,garment body 52 is form fitting and snug to more accurately measurephysiological responses. Thus, in such embodiments, 11 (or more)available sizes may be provided to ensure a form fitting fit on theuser.

In some embodiments, garment body 52 is a unisex garment body. Garmentbody 52 may be fitted based on torso length relevant to chest wallcircumference while the garment body is constructed from an elasticmaterial. Fitting and constructing garment body 52 in such manners mayallow the garment body to be made unisex, which may make manufacturing,shirt selection, distribution, and inventory of garments moremanageable.

In certain embodiments, garment body 52 is form fitting and designed tobe worn for prolonged periods of time. Garment body 52 may be designedto fit and be worn like a typical athletic garment. For most typicalembodiments, garment body 52 may not need special fitting for the user.Garment body 52 may be form-fitting to allow the garment body toproperly collect data from an individual wearer of the garment body(e.g., the user). In some embodiments, a sizing chart is provided to anindividual with garment body 52 (or distribution materials for thegarment body) to provide a recommendation for sizing of the garmentbody. Recommendations for sizing may correspond to, for example, chestmeasurements of the individual or other measurements of body parts ofthe individual intended for wearing of garment body 52 (e.g., armdiameter, leg diameter, etc.). The sizing process may be a processsimilar to the process for effectively fitting a high-end backpack ordaypack, common in the outdoor retail space. In some embodiments,garment body 52 may be worn under other equipment for prolonged periodsof time (e.g., under football pads) or the wearer may have a unique bodyshape for which a specially-made garment body is needed.

Garment system 50 may include garment body 52 and multiple additionalcomponents. In certain embodiments, garment system 50 includes a heartrate monitor (not shown), respiration/skeletal position monitors 116,accelerometers 130, GPS/WWAN component 134, processor 114, acellular/satellite transceiver (not shown), a low frequencyreceiver/transceiver system (not shown), kinetic power modulator 138,and generators 136. These components may be attached to or embedded ingarment body 52. A dashboard application (e.g., an application on amobile device) may also be associated with garment system 50. As shownin FIGS. 1 and 2, wiring may couple one or more of the components ongarment body 52.

In certain embodiments, processor 114 provides processing of informationacquired through various sensors/components on garment body 52.Processor 114 may process the acquired information (e.g., raw data fromsensors/components) to generate new information. Processor 114 maytransmit the information using the cellular/satellite transceiver and/orthe low frequency receiver/transceiver system. Transmitted informationmay include either processed information and/or raw data information. Insome embodiments, processor 114 includes memory for storing theinformation and transmitting the information at a later time. Forexample, processor 114 may transmit the information using a bursttransmission at a specified time.

In some embodiments, the cellular/satellite transceiver and/or the lowfrequency receiver/transceiver system are attached to or part ofprocessor 114. In some embodiments, the cellular/satellite transceiverand/or the low frequency receiver/transceiver system are separated fromprocessor 114 in garment body 52. In some embodiments, antennas foreither a satellite, a cellular, or another receiver/transceiver areintegrated into garment body 52. For example, the antennas may beflexible, flat antennas integrated into garment body 52. Integration ofthe antennas may include sewing or embedding the antennas into garmentbody 52. The antennas may include small circuit boards using lightweightmaterials that provide fast data transfer rates.

In some embodiments, GPS/WWAN component 134 includes thecellular/satellite transceiver and/or the low frequencyreceiver/transceiver system. In some embodiments, the cellular/satellitetransceiver and the low frequency receiver/transceiver systems areredundant systems (e.g., one system is capable of operation if the othersystem is not operable or transmission using the system is notavailable).

In certain embodiments, the low frequency receiver/transceiver system isused to create an ecosystem around garment system 50. For example, thelow frequency receiver/transceiver system may incorporate a lowfrequency system such as Bluetooth or Bluetooth Smart. Othercommunication protocols may also be used such as, but not limited to,ANT+, Wi-Fi, LiFi, and SATCOM. Using such technology may provide for theaddition of third-party hardware for extended biofeedback responsecapabilities. Some possible hardware concepts include, but are notlimited to, glasses to track movement and pupil dilation, wristbands tomonitor skin conductivity and temperature, ambient temperature sensors,and DTR (deep tendon reflex) monitoring. In some embodiments, the lowfrequency receiver/transceiver system includes small transmitters andreceivers capable of moving large quantities of data and smaller packagesizes over greater distances. The low frequency receiver/transceiversystem utilize protocols to include a wide variety of third-partyhardware. In some embodiments, submersible technology may beincorporated in the low frequency receiver/transceiver system.

In certain embodiments, an application is associated with garment system50. For example, as described above, a dashboard application (e.g., anapplication or module on a mobile device or other electronic device) isassociated with garment system 50. Processor 114 may communicate withthe device to send/receive data between the application and garmentsystem 50. The application associated with garment system 50 may providesimultaneous review of all biometric information as well ascomplementary information generated by the processing of acquired data(e.g., algorithmic manipulation of acquired data). The application mayallow for the management, utilization, and near real-time review ofgathered data regardless of the physical location of the device relevantto garment system 50.

In some embodiments, the application associated with garment system 50may be a native iOS or Android application as well as a web platform.The dashboard application may access a remote server associated withgarment system 50 (e.g., through a secure Internet connection). Theapplication may provide capability for the passing of information andsystem management tools between garment system 50 and the remote server.This setup may allow for wireless firmware updates and remote diagnosticcapabilities. Live “over-the-wire” firmware updates may occur asenhancements are made and the garment application may be updated asimprovements occur. Initially, the garment application may allow for themeasurement and viewing of all biometric processes being monitored andGPS location. In some embodiments, garment system 50 may include controlcapabilities such as VO2 Threshold, Tidal Volume, WAN locating, 3DThoracic wall movement diagramming, third-party apps, etc.

In some embodiments, a heart rate (BR) monitor is incorporated ingarment body 52. The HR monitor may function utilizing decodingalgorithms and three lead EKG equivalent monitoring straps. In someembodiments, the HR monitor may integrate a 12 lead EKG equivalentmonitor. The HR monitor may, however, integrate any number of leads inan EKG equivalent monitor. The HR monitor may stream pulse rate toprocessor 114, which may run the data through multiple algorithmsdeveloped and offered as a package. The algorithms offered may provide,but not be limited to, the following outputs: BPM (beats per minute),HRR (heart rate reserve), stress response, and HRV (heart ratevariability).

In some embodiments, the HR monitor is integrated into the material ofgarment body 52. The HR monitor may be, for example, a standard heartrate monitor that circumnavigates either a portion of the user's chestor a portion of the user's body adjacent the chest. The HR monitor mayutilize three lead EKG equivalent monitoring techniques usingelectrically conductive pads. The HR monitor may be positionedanatomically under the breast line of the user and over the top of thexiphoid process (in proximity to dotted line 140 found in FIG. 1). TheHR monitor may track pulse rate (and/or other information) in nearreal-time and may transmit the information via hardwire to processor114.

In certain embodiments, the HR monitor includes a pulse oximeter. Thepulse oximeter may be used to assess SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation)levels in the wearer. In some embodiments, the pulse oximeter isseparate from the HR monitor on garment body 52. Measurements of SpO2from the pulse oximeter may be combined with other data to provide anassessed condition of the wearer of garment body 52.

The HR monitor may also include low-frequency wireless technology suchas, but not limited to, Bluetooth Smart. The Bluetooth Smart or similartechnology may allow for the heart rate to be transmitted in nearreal-time to a third-party device or monitoring tool. The third-partydevice or monitoring tool may include devices/tools such as, but notlimited to, an electronic device including an application (e.g., amobile device with a dashboard application), deep tendon reflexmonitoring cuffs, pedometers, glasses utilized to track multiple periodsof vision, eye movement, and focal points, skin conductivity monitors,skin temperature monitors, and atmospheric monitors. Wirelesstransmissions may be secondary to hardwired transmissions through ahardwired connection to processor 114. The contact pads for the heartrate monitor may be rubberized and fully encapsulated to ensure that theunit is watertight.

In certain embodiments, battery 132, shown in FIG. 2, is used to providepower for the HR monitor (and other components) of garment system 50. Incertain embodiments, battery 132 is a flexible, thin battery that isnon-combustible. In some embodiments, battery 132 is a flexible batterydistributed through a portion of garment body 52. Battery 132 may beremovable from garment body 52 (e.g., for replacement and/or rechargingof the battery).

In some embodiments, the HR monitor is coupled to battery 132 via awired connection. In some embodiments, the HR monitor may includeupdated firmware and technology upgrades including more efficientmonitoring, three-dimensional sonography, target specific ultrasound,and more frequent data transmissions.

In certain embodiments, garment system 50 includes a magneticrespiratory monitor. The magnetic respiratory monitor may be used tomeasure chest wall and/or abdominal movement (e.g., expansion andcontraction). In certain embodiments, the magnetic respiratory monitormeasures chest wall and abdominal movement at twelve points on the body,with six points being on a first side of the body and six points beingon a second side of the body. Four leads may be placed at relevantpoints along the thoracic wall to monitor the linear movement of therelated space along a linear plane. Two leads may be placed on thelateral aspect of the abdominal wall to monitor for diaphragmaticbreathing. The respiration rate, frequency, and depth may be transmittedover wire in real-time to processor 114. Processor 114 may process theinformation through a series of algorithms to determine results such as,but not limited to: respiration depth, respiration quality, respirationrate, respiratory rhythm, and relevant chest wall and abdominal movement(symmetric, asymmetric, variance, etc.).

FIG. 3 displays an embodiment of method 300. Method 300 may be used formonitoring an individual using a magnetic respiratory monitor inaccordance with embodiments described herein. Method 300 may includeproviding magnets 310. In certain embodiments, two magnets are provided.In some embodiments, a first magnet is a static magnet. In 320, a secondmagnet may be mobilized in the vicinity of the static magnet. In 330, amagnetometer may monitor the variation in magnetic force applied to thestatic magnet by the mobilized magnet. In certain embodiments, themobilized magnet is attached to the mediastinal breastplate of garmentbody 52. The position of the mediastinal breastplate may be representedby position 142, shown in FIG. 1.

Magnetic variance may occur on inspiration and expiration as the magnetattached to the breastplate moves away from the static magnet duringinspiration and back towards the static magnet during expiration. In340, the variance in force may be transmitted by the magnetometer to theprocessor (e.g., processor 114). The number of times the variances arerecorded over a period of time may be identified as the number ofrespirations in that period. In certain embodiments, the pair of magnetsinvolved in method 300 are encapsulated in a thin waterproof tube inconjunction with the magnetometer. The static magnet may be glued inplace to the interior of the watertight tube. Each magnetic device mayconsist of a magnetometer, a static magnet secured to the interior ofthe tube, a mobile magnet inserted into the interior of the tube, awatertight tube, and a cable attachment to the breast plate.

There may be a plurality of magnetic devices distributed throughoutgarment body 52. For example, in one embodiment, there may be twelvemagnetic devices distributed throughout garment body 52. In someembodiments, four devices are located over the left lateral aspect ofthe thorax and four devices are located over the right lateral aspect ofthe thorax. In some embodiments, two devices are located over the leftanterolateral aspect of the abdomen and two devices are located over theright anterolateral aspect of the abdomen. In some embodiments, amagnetic respiratory monitor may be placed within garment body 52 oneach side of the garment body. The monitors may correlate with an upperchest wall of an individual so that breathing patterns in these twoareas may be monitored. In some embodiments, the length of the tube mayalign with an outward axis of breathing of the individual so that themagnets move along this axis and provide useful measurable results. Insome embodiments, garment system 50 includes magnetometry that does notrequire actual moving magnets, uses smaller integrated systems, andprovides faster, more reliable reads.

In some embodiments, the magnetometer includes standard magnetometercomponents that are capable of measuring at least one of the following:the magnetization of a magnetic material and the strength and/ordirection of a magnetic field at a point in space. In some embodiments,a sensor of the magnetometer is positioned within the magnetic fieldfound within or in the vicinity of the tube housing the static magnetand the mobile magnet.

In some embodiments, garment body 52 is worn in conjunction with a belt.The belt may include a magnet and magnetometer setup as described abovewith the tube aligning along an axis perpendicular to the length andwidth of the belt. The belt may, when garment body 52 is worn by anindividual, circumnavigate the pelvic region of an individual and maycarry out at least one of two tasks: 1) keep the garment in place if anindividual is wearing the garment and 2) measure the pelvic positioningof an individual. In some embodiments, the belt may be positioned overthe iliac crests of the pelvis.

In some embodiments, garment body 52, in the form of a shirt, includes awaistband sewn within a hem of a shirt. The waistband may, when garmentbody 52 is worn by an individual, circumnavigate the pelvic region ofthe individual. The waistband may comprise a magnet and magnetometersetup as previously described with the tube aligning along an axisperpendicular to the length and width of the waistband. The waistbandmay measure the pelvic positioning of an individual when the individualis wearing garment body 52. In some embodiments, the waistband includesan elastic material. In some embodiments, the waistband is positionedover the iliac crests of the pelvis.

FIG. 4 displays a diagram depicting an embodiment of a wired frameworkof garment system 50. In certain embodiments, garment system 50integrates up to twelve primary components. In certain embodiments,garment system 50 includes processor 114. Information generated bybiometric sensors, Bluetooth extensions, GPS signals, and any othergeneral feedback provided through the garment system may be processedwithin the garment system using processor 114. Processed data packetsmay be transmitted via uplink to a server associated with garment system50 and then made available in near real-time to a dashboard/application,as described herein. The mechanism of processing information on boardgarment system 50 may allow for the continuous cycling and evaluation ofdata even in the event of uplink loss. This may be critical inhigh-conflict/shielded areas such as areas near power-lines, arounddense foliage, or building cover. Once communication with the server isre-established, burst transmissions may occur in order to move as muchinformation to the server, and then out to the users, as fast aspossible. In some embodiments, processor 114 provides a fast processor(e.g., parallelized multicore processing) in a smaller chip size withmore powerful, deeper evaluation of biometric feedback data.

Garment system 50 may include a wireless monitoring system that providestesting typically reserved for the lab. Processor 114 may be wired orwirelessly connected with a plurality of respiration monitoring sites116. Using respiration monitoring sites 116 placed at thoracic andabdominal areas, garment system 50 may provide monitoring forrespirations, heart rate, and thoracic movement along with relevantconjoined data. Garment system 50 may allow for the integration ofBluetooth Smart enabled peripheral monitors. The wireless capabilitiesof garment system 50 may also provide channels for updating andexpanding of the garment system.

In certain embodiments, garment system 50 includes eight thoracicrespiration monitoring sites 116 and four abdominal respirationmonitoring sites 116 (both generally denoted as respiration monitoringsites 116). A rechargeable battery 132 may be connected to processor114. Battery 132 may be encased in a waterproof shell that is resistantup to 100 meters of water or greater. The configuration of battery 132may depend on the variation of garment system 50. For example, acommercial version of garment system 50 may utilize an integratedbattery 132 that requires that the garment system to be returned to acompany for a swap out of the battery once the battery has exceeded lifeexpectancy. In some embodiments, an accessible version of garment system50 may utilize a removable battery for battery 132 that allows foremergency swap out, field servicing, and/or swaps on prolongedoperations (such as in the military). The estimated standby time forgarment system 50 without kinetic influence or charge may be about 10-15days, which may reduce or eliminate the possibility of power sapping.

In certain embodiments, garment system 50 includes a plurality ofaccelerometers 130. Accelerometers 130 may be strategicallyintegrated/placed in garment body 52. The integration of accelerometers130 may provide additional data acquisition for garment system 50.Accelerometers 130 may, for example, provide the location of garmentsystem 50 relevant to perpendicular and/or the ground and thus providethe body position of the wearer relevant to perpendicular and/or theground. Providing body position may allow an evaluator to determine theactivity of the wearer (running versus biking, versus swimming, etc.).Accelerometers 130 may identify position relevant to the perpendicularin conjunction with being relevant to each other. Accelerometers 130 mayfurther determine torso and limb movement associated with mobility.Accelerometer 130 may further be used to determine the quality ofspecific movements.

In some embodiments, garment system 50 includes four accelerometers 130:a left posterior accelerometer, a right posterior accelerometer, a leftanterior accelerometer, and a right anterior accelerometer.Accelerometers 130 may collect information on the movement of anindividual including the direction of movement, the speed of movement,the duration in which a movement takes place, and the smoothness of themovement. This information may be provided to processor 114 and storedon a memory in connection with the processor. Processor 114 maycorrelate the data with sample data that may represent a specificactivity. This correlation may allow garment system 50 to tell what typeof activity an individual is doing, how well the individual isperforming an activity, and how well the individual is doing(health-wise) during the activity.

In some embodiments, garment system 50 includes one accelerometer 130over the posterior superior lateral aspect of the left scapula, oneaccelerometer 130 over the posterior superior lateral aspect of theright scapula, one accelerometer 130 placed over the left anteriorsuperior medial aspect of the ischial crest, and one accelerometer 130placed over the right anterior superior medial aspect of the ischialcrest. Each accelerometer 130 may relay information independently toprocessor 114 so that the individual accelerometers' 130 positionsrelevant to perpendicular and/or the ground can be measured as well asvariations to perpendicular to the ground. Each unit may measure itsrelative position, speed, and momentum respective to every other unit.This information may also be sent to processor 114 by each individualaccelerometer 130. The combined data in aggregate from theaccelerometers 130 may provide a three-dimensional digital view of thebody in motion. In some embodiments, the size and/or number ofaccelerometers 130 may vary in garment system 50. Additionally,accelerometers 130 and/or processor 114 may include upgraded hardwareand/or software to provide more accurate and faster data aggregation.

In some embodiments, accelerometers 130 include, or are included as partof, inertial measurement units (IMUs). Inertial measurement units may beused to assess the bodies physical position in a three-dimensional spaceas well as complex motion. The use of inertial measurement units mayprovide near real-time mapping of complex motions including rotation,flexion, and extension. Inertial measurement unit data may be used incombination with other data (e.g., GPS data) to provide athree-dimensional image of the wearer's body in space relative to otherobjects (e.g., a real-time tracking image).

In certain embodiments, processor 114 is connected to GPS/WWAN component134. GPS/WWAN component 134 may include a GPS monitor and/or a WWANmonitor. The GPS monitor may be stacked or swapped with the WWAN monitorfor indoor movement tracking in a 3D space. In some embodiments, thepurpose of GPS/WWAN component 134 is to determine the wearer's physicalposition in a real-world environment. In some embodiments, the ping ratefor GPS/WWAN component 134 may be one second intervals (e.g., theclosest to constant position streaming currently available).

In some embodiments, GPS/WWAN component 134 may be located along thespinal column over the C5. GPS/WWAN component 134 may be small in sizeand may be low profile. GPS/WWAN component 134 may utilize an integratedantenna. For high standard versions (e.g., military versions) of garmentsystem 50, an elongated, flexible, and flat GPS antenna may beintegrated into garment body 52. The GPS component of GPS/WWAN component134 may be utilized to track the physical location of the body in areal-time environment. For certain purposes (e.g., military purposes),GPS/WWAN component 134 may be capable of utilizing WWAN to track awearer through an interior environment. WWAN integration may affordobservers utilizing the app or web dashboard to track the garment'swearer in near real time on a map overlay. In some embodiments, GPS/WWANcomponent 134 includes small units that provide good satellite tracking,fast locking, and good transmission through dense cover.

FIG. 5 displays a diagram of an embodiment of kinetic power module setup139. In certain embodiments, kinetic power module setup 139 is includedin garment system 50. Kinetic power module setup 139 may allow garmentsystem 50 to provide a low frequency wireless enabled wearable utilizingat least one power generator, magnetic respiratory monitor, and onboardprocessor 114. The method of acquiring, processing, and transmittingbiometric feedback data using garment system 50 may allow for thecomplete physical evaluation of a wearer without being harnessed to atreadmill, spirometer, and ECG machine while being isolated to a laboutside of an active real-world environment. Thus, garment system 50 maytake the guess work out of live, real-world performance and stressresponse.

In certain embodiments, kinetic power module setup 139 and garmentsystem 50 include at least one integrated kinetic power generator 136that allows for the garment system to continuously charge while thewearer is in motion. Continuous charging may allow battery 132 to onlydeplete when the body is static. Charging using kinetic power modulesetup 139 may increase the battery life and decrease the requirement forcharging. The kinetic charging may allow garment system 50 to be usedfor long duration activities. Long duration activities may include, forexample, combat operation scenarios such as foot patrols, Direct ActionOperations, and/or training exercises spanning multiple days in thefield. Long duration activities may also include commercially viableactivities such as triathlons and endurance races. In some embodiments,kinetic generators 136 may be diffuse kinetic chargers.

Kinetic generators 136 may be integrated into garment body 52, as shownin FIGS. 1 and 2. Kinetic generators 136 may include multiplemicro-kinetic power generators that are located throughout garment body52. In certain embodiments, kinetic generators 136 are placed instrategic areas (e.g., areas with high movement such as the shouldersand/or hips). As shown in FIG. 5, each kinetic generator 136 may becoupled to power modulator 138. Energy generated in each kineticgenerator 136 may be throttled through power modulator 138 to tricklecharge the garment's battery 132. Power modulator 138 may be capable oftrickle charging battery 132 from the charge of a single kineticgenerator 136 or all kinetic power generators 136 simultaneously. Thismay be necessary because in certain body positions, or during certainactivities, there may be limited motion through all or some of the upperextremities and thus regions of garment body 52. Power modulator 138 maybe directly wired to the battery 132 in order to provide thecharge/trickle charge. In some embodiments, kinetic power module setup139 may be based on the Seiko-type kinetic power generation system thathas been utilized in watches since the early 80s. In some embodiments,kinetic power generators 136 may include smaller generators capable ofgenerating more power from less movement. In some embodiments, kineticpower generators 136 may incorporate organic solar paneling woven intothe garment material of garment body 52.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of respiratory monitor sub-system 110.Respiratory monitor sub-system 110 may be integrated into shirt 112(e.g., garment body 52) and may include processor 114 and multipleinstantiations of respiration monitoring site (“RMS”) 116, i.e., RMS 116a-116 f. Each RMS 116 may be connected to processor 114 via a serialbus. During operation, each RMS 116 may sense movement, as describedbelow, and provide a corresponding digital output that is a function ofthe detected movement. In some embodiments, each RMS 116 output islatched and scanned serially back to processor 114 where it is availablefor further analysis or processing. In other embodiments, the digitaldata provided by each RMS 116 may be provided to processor 114 along aparallel bus. In some embodiments, respiratory monitor sub-system 110may not include processor 114.

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of RMS 116. RMS 116 may includeconductive elastomer (“CE”) panel 118, multiple instances of straindetection unit 120 (e.g., strain detection units 120 a-120 b), and latch122. CE panel 118 may include at least 2 strips of material (e.g.,strands or fibers of a conductive elastomer), one substantially in thehorizontal direction, and one substantially in the vertical direction.CE panels 118 may be integrated into shirt 112 (e.g., garment body 52)over areas that are affected during the respiratory process; forinstance, over the rib cage and upper abdomen. When inhalation andexhalation occur, the material stretches, expanding and contracting withbody motion, i.e., thoracic expansion and contraction while breathing.

As is known, the resistance of the conductive elastomer fibers orthreads is given as: R=(p*1)/A;

where R represents the resistance, p represents electrical resistivity(L2-m), A represents the cross-sectional area in m2, and 1=length of theconductor in m. According to this relation, when the area of theconductive elastomer decreases, its resistance increases. Deflection,i.e., expansion and contraction, of the conductive elastomer results ina decrease in the cross-sectional area and a concomitant change in theresistance of the conductive elastomer.

Strain detection units 120 a and 120 b may detect the changes in theresistance of the conductive elastomer that results from the expansionand contraction of the strands that accompany inhalation and exhalation.Latch 122 may capture the results of the detection performed by straindetection unit 120 and provide the captured data to processor 114 by wayof the aforementioned serial or parallel bus.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of strain detection unit 120. Straindetection unit 120 may include strain sensor unit 124, signalconditioning unit 126, and analog-to-digital converter (“ADC”) 128.During operation, strain sensor unit 124 may detect the changes inresistance resulting from the deflection of the conductive elastomerstrands due to inhalation and exhalation. The results from strain sensorunit 124 may be provided to signal conditioning unit 126, where theresulting signal or signals are, for example, amplified and any DCoffset is removed. The conditioned signal may be provided to ADC 128where the signal is converted into a digital output. ADC 128 may be asimple 1-bit ADC, a more complex 24-bit ADC, or something in between,depending upon the application and the needs of the system.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of strain detection unit 120′.Strain detection unit 120′ may include Wheatstone bridge 124′, amplifier126′, and ADC 128′. Wheatstone bridge 124′, as is known, is often usedto accurately measure small changes in resistance of a strained medium,converting the changes in resistance into a voltage that can beamplified by amplifier 126′ and converted to a digital output by ADC128′. Wheatstone bridge 24′ includes 4 resistors R1, R2, R3, and RCE,where RCE is the resistance of the conductive elastomer. When all fourresistors in Wheatstone bridge 124′ are equal, the bridge may beperfectly balanced and the output voltage is equal to zero. But when anyone or more of the resistors change value by only a fractional amount,the bridge produces a measurable voltage. The output voltage of theWheatstone bridge 124′ is given by:

Vout=Von((R2/(R1+R.2))−(R3/(REETR3))).

Thus, when the resistance of the conductive elastomer, illustrated hereas RcE, changes, the output voltage provided to amplifier 126′ reflectsthat change as a change in voltage which is then conditioned andamplified by amplifier 126′. The amplified signal is then converted to adigital output by ADC 128′. As before, ADC 128′ may be a simple 1-bitADC, a more complex 24-bit ADC, or something in between, depending uponthe application and the needs of the system.

FIG. 10 displays a side layer view of an embodiment of multi-layerelastic conductive fabric 150 utilized in garment body 52. Fabric 150may include top layer 152, bottom layer 156, and midsection 154. Inembodiments where garment body 52 is a shirt, the garment body mayinclude form-fitting fabric that has an open interior defining a torso.Garment body 52 may, however, include any form-fitting fabric with anopen interior for any body part (e.g., arm or leg).

In certain embodiments, bottom layer 156 is a conductive elastic fabriclayer. Bottom layer 156 may, for example, include conductive flexiblefibers. In some embodiments, bottom layer 156 includes a rubberizedconducive material, such as, but not limited to a metal rubber. Metalrubber may provide an ideal set of properties including elasticity andconductivity. When an individual is wearing garment body 52, bottomlayer 156 may be adjacent the individual's skin. Bottom layer 156 mayreceive a natural current from the individual's skin that may betransmitted throughout the bottom layer. In certain embodiments, thisnatural current may be measured by one or more RMS 116, which may outputdata that is analyzed to show how an individual is positioned or isbreathing. In some embodiments, a current from a component of garmentbody 52 may provide a current that is supplied to bottom layer 156 andone or more RMS 116. In some embodiments, the current supplyingcomponent may be battery 132.

Midsection 154 may be an insulative fabric such as, but not limited to,a woven textile including insulative fibers. In some embodiments,midsection 154 may include crosslinked material. It should be noted thatthe insulative fibers of the woven textile may be adjacent bottom layer156 so that the bottom layer may carry a charge from one point toanother without midsection 154 interfering with the current passedthrough the bottom layer. Top layer 152 may include an elastic fabricsuch as, but not limited to spandex and Lycra. In certain embodiments,midsection 154 is adhered to the top and bottom layers 152,156 via anadhesive polymer. In some embodiments, the woven textile of midsection154 is woven to at least one of the top and bottom layers 152,156. Insome embodiments, the elastic conductive polymer may exhibitcharacteristics similar to a metal rubber.

FIG. 11 displays a front view of an embodiment of a respiratorymonitoring system engrained within garment body 52. As shown in FIG. 11,multi-layer elastic conductive fabric 150 may include a definite widththat may be confined within a length from a first detection unit 120 toa second detection unit 120. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11,multi-layer elastic conductive fabric 150 may alternatively bedesignated as “panel strips”. A plurality of panel strips may make up aframework splayed across garment body 52 in diagonal patterns to provideconductivity to a plurality of detection units 120 found on a largeportion of the garment body. These panel strips may be woven and/orstitched to garment body 52 itself At each contact point/overlap,detection unit 120 may be located to create a data packet on the currentbeing passed at that specific monitor. The data packet may include atime at which a current is measured. Detection units 120 may then sendthe information to either processor 114 on garment body 52 or anexternal processor that may store and analyze the data packets receivedusing either a wired or wireless connection (such as those mentionedherein). Using one or more algorithms, processor 114 may outputbreathing information on an individual wearing garment body 52.

FIG. 12 displays an embodiment of method 1200 for monitoring bodyfunctions. Method 1200 may measure functions such as, but are notlimited to, inspiration, expiration, skeletal positional quality, andvolume of respiration. Method 1200 may utilize any of the embodiments ofgarment system 50 including a respiratory monitor system and detectionunits 120. Method 1200 may be utilized in conjunction with the physicalmovements of the respiratory process.

Method 1200 may include providing garment system 50 to an individual in1210. The user may don garment system 50 in 1220 and may breathe(perform inspiration and expiration) while wearing garment body 52.While wearing garment body 52, the user's breathing may causemulti-layer elastic conductive fabric 150 of the garment body toelongate and the conductive fibers in the material to become uniformlythinner As the conductive fibers become thinner, the resistance alongthe conductive fibers increases. Because of the increased resistance,the transmission time of the electrical signal across the fabricincreases. These transmission times may be recorded in 1230 by detectionunits 120 placed within the garment 50. The material may be incorporatedinto garment body 52 so that substantially all expansion of fibers isalong a linear plane. The recordation of times may then be included ininformation packets sent 1240 to processor 114 for further analysis in1250.

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict another embodiment of garment system 50′. Garmentsystem 50′ may include a plurality of RMSs 116 located on the anteriorand the posterior of garment body 52. RMSs 116 may be integrally placedto provide sufficient monitoring of an individual's bodily movements,functions, and/or positioning. Garment system 50′ may include six RMSs116 located on the anterior portion of garment body 52, four RMSs 116located on the posterior portion of the garment body, and two RMSs 116located right below the armpit portions of the garment body.

FIGS. 15 and 16 depict side views of an embodiment of a skeleton withvarying posture characteristics. FIGS. 15 and 16 are reproductions offigures in a presentation by James Anderson, MPT, PRC of the PosturalRestoration Institute® entitled “POSTURAL RESPIRATION—An IntegratedApproach to Treatment of Patterned Thoraco-Abdominal Pathomechanics” onAug. 23-24, 2014 in Loveland, Colo. These posture characteristics may beanalyzed using RMSs 116 found on garment body 52. Detection units 120utilized in RMSs 116 may not be just quantitative (like how rapidlysomeone is breathing or how fast their heart is beating) but may also bequalitative. Garment system 50 may provide a window into how effectivelyan individual is breathing, what subtle positional factors in theirspine and ribcage exist, and what state their autonomic nervous systemis in as they train (rest and recover).

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates most of the body's crucialsystems like digestive, cardiac, immune and lymphatic systems.Regulation may be achieved via a balanced relationship between twosub-systems, the parasympathetic or “rest and digest” system (PNS) andthe sympathetic “fight or flight” system (SNS). Studies on eliteperformers ranging from Navy SEALs to students taking college entranceexams show that the top performers have the best variance in theirnervous systems and are able to baseline most effectively in a restful,parasympathetic state when at rest.

These elite performers are able to spike strongly and immediately into apowerful sympathetic response when needed, and then abruptly drop backinto recovery mode between either sets of a tennis match, jumping out ofan airplane, or while at home over the weekend. Their heart rates dipmore at night during sleep than their lower-performing counterparts, andthey hit harder with a more robust “engage threat” response when calledupon. Top performers have greater biological power because they only puttheir foot on the gas at the precise times when it's necessary.Underperformers are essentially working with one foot on the gas and theother on the brake at all times, neither hitting top speed nor slowingdown and taking stress off the engine. Variability is availability.

Much of this analysis comes down to breathing and the interplay betweenrespiratory patterns, heart rate, the autonomic nervous system, and thepositioning of the spine and ribcage. Garment system 50 may provide nearreal-time monitoring and dynamic adjustment of all of the above.Breathing is generally misunderstood, predictably inefficient even inwell-trained athletes and difficult to monitor without a system such asgarment system 50. Breathing is a direct input into the autonomicnervous system (ANS) and drives positioning of the thorax, which is notonly crucial for effective performance and the avoidance of injuries,but again directly affects the ANS.

The body has inherent physical asymmetries. For example, the liver islocated on the right of the torso, with the heart shifted towards theleft side of the chest. The liver's position offsets the diaphragm onthe right, tenting it upward, while the diaphragm on the left isunaffected. The lungs have two lobes on the left and three on the right.These and other asymmetries drive predictable positional imbalancesthroughout the body. Many of these are tied into respiration. As aresult, not only does the spine rotate in a predictable and injuriousfashion, people tend to baseline in spinal extension, which induces astate of chronic sympathetic tone, reduced ANS variability and a host ofphysiological issues, partially due to activation of sympathetic spinalganglia. This has profound impacts on everything from physicalperformance to sleep quality and stress management. A combination ofthese asymmetries, the postural influences and chronic, mildstress-state of modern life and other factors produce predictable andmeasurable changes in breathing, spinal and rib positioning andautonomic function. Being able to monitor and adjust these factorsdynamically during training based on near real-time feedback isimmensely valuable, and is where garment system 50 may be uniquelycapable.

Garment system 50 may allow for monitoring of the asymmetric,multi-planar (transverse, sagittal and frontal) movement of the abdomen,spine and thorax during respiration and movement. Garment system 50 mayalso provide a direct window into cardiac workload and autonomic balancevia heart rate and heart rate variability monitoring. This provides avaluable form of training feedback for everything from intense militarytraining scenarios to strength and endurance training to meditativebiofeedback exercises.

By utilizing embodiments of garment system 50 with one or moresub-systems described herein, the garment system may recognize theposition of certain body parts that may correlate with a specificposture of an individual's body. For example, garment system 50 maycategorize an individual's spinal position as found in either FIG. 15 orFIG. 16. This categorization may be determined by running a currentthrough a plurality of RMSs 116 and measuring the time lapsed from onesensor to another. This time measurement may be compared with other timemeasurements (via a processor) recorded from other garment systems 50utilized by other individuals with varying spinal positions. Informationmay further be supplied about how an individual may alter their spinalposition if desired via the information gathered on other individual'svarying spinal positions. Body parts that may be analyzed may include,but are not limited to the chest, the spine, and the pelvis.

FIG. 17 displays an alternative embodiment of method 1500 for collectingdata. Method 1500 may utilize any embodiment of garment system 50described herein. Method 1500 may include providing garment system 50 toan individual in 1510. Data may be procured in 1520 via at least one ofprocessors 114 of garment system 50, respiratory monitor sub-system 110,GPS monitor 134, and/or at least one of the plurality of accelerometers130. The procured data may then be transmitted in 1530 to at least oneof processor 114 and the data analysis module. The procured data may beanalyzed in 1540 via at least one of the processor 114 and the dataanalysis module. An algorithm may then be applied in 1550 to theprocured data via at least one of processor 114 and the data analysismodule in order to provide a processed output. The processed output mayinclude biometric information associated with an individual wearinggarment system 50.

FIG. 18 displays an embodiment of method 1600 for monitoring breathing.Method 1600 may utilize any embodiment of garment system 50 describedherein. Method 1600 may include providing garment system 50 to anindividual in 1610. Method 1600 may include running a current through atleast some of the conductive flexible fibers and respiratory monitoringsites 116 in 1620. In certain embodiments, at least some of theconductive flexible fibers are in a nonlinear position in response to anapplied force. In 1630, current information from respiratory monitoringsites 116 may be monitored and recorded. In some embodiments, thecurrent information may include assigning a time stamp to the current atthe point in time the current is received by respiratory monitoringsites 116. In 1640, the current information may be sent, via at leastone of a wired network and a wireless network, to processor 114. In someembodiments, the processor may utilize an algorithm to process the data.In 1650, the current information may be processed, via the algorithm,provide a processed output.

As described herein, garment system 50 may be used to assess (e.g.,track) various biometric properties including, but not limited to, bodyposition, body motion, and vital signs (e.g., heart rate and respirationrate). Assessment of biometric properties using garment system 50 may beuseful for many different implementations of the garment system. Forexample, the garment system may be used to track the various biometricproperties during physical exertion events (e.g., exercise or stressevents) and/or to track the various biometric properties for medicalassessments (e.g., track biometrics for medical patients or duringclinical studies). In certain embodiments, signals (e.g., either wiredor wireless signals) associated with the various biometric propertiesthat are received at processor 114 are synchronized to be on the sameclock. For example, the signals may be synchronized to be on the samesystem clock (such as the clock for processor 114).

FIG. 19 depicts an anterior view representation of another embodiment ofgarment system 50″. FIG. 20 depicts a posterior view representation ofthe embodiment of garment system 50″. FIG. 21 depicts a side viewrepresentation of the embodiment of garment system 50″. Garment system50″ may be used to assess biometric properties of a wearer of thegarment system. In some embodiments, garment system 50″ is capable ofproviding additional capabilities for the detection and/or treatment ofmedical conditions using the garment system. It is to be understood thatcomponents of garment system 50″ are interchangeable with components ofother garment systems described herein (e.g., garment system 50). Itshould also be understood that garment system 50″ may be used inembodiments intended for use in the detection and/or treatment ofmedical conditions and/or in embodiments intended solely for theassessment of biometric properties. In certain embodiments intendedsolely for the assessment of biometric properties, components intendedfor use in detection and/or treatment of medical conditions may beremoved from garment system 50″.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 19, garment system 50″ includesEKG (electrocardiography) sensors 201. EKG sensors 201 may be generallylocated at positions accepted for monitoring EKG via traditionalmethods. EKG sensors 201 may be used to provide real-time EKGmonitoring. EKG monitoring may provide the ability to measure HRR, HRV,and hemodynamic waveforms.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 19, garment system 50″ includesone or more environmental sensors 200 integrated in garment body 52.Sensor 200 may be integrated into a fabric used for garment body 52. Incertain embodiments, sensor 200 is integrated in a layer of fabric thatis exposed to an ambient environment surround garment body 52 (e.g., thesensors are in contact with the air around the garment body). Forexample, sensor 200 may be a panel in the outer layer of garment body52.

The size of sensor 200 may be varied depending on a desired design forgarment body 52. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, sensor 200 may besensor 200A or sensor 200B. Sensor 200A may be used for smaller designsof garment body 52 (e.g., for use with small children) while sensor 200Bmay be used for larger designs of garment body 52 (e.g., for largerchildren and/or adults). The size of sensor 200 may also vary based ondesired indicator requirements (e.g., color indication described below)and/or a sensitivity requirement of the sensor for a certain chemical(e.g., a sensor may need a minimum size to provide suitableenvironmental detection sensitivity).

Sensor 200 may be used to assess one or more environmental conditions inthe ambient environment surrounding garment body 52. In certainembodiments, assessing environmental conditions includes assessing ormonitoring for particulate matter in the ambient environment surroundinggarment body 52 (e.g., assessing exposure of garment body 52 toparticulate matter). In some embodiments, assessing or monitoring forparticulate matter includes sensing (or detecting) the presence ofparticulate matter and/or assessing the concentration of the particulatematter in the ambient environment surrounding garment body 52.Particulate matter assessed by sensor 200 may include particulates insolid, liquid, and/or gaseous form. In some embodiments, particulatematter assessed by sensor 200 includes aerosolized matter. Particulatematter that may be assessed by sensor 200 includes, but is not limitedto, food allergens (e.g., peanuts, soy, tree nuts, etc.), chemicals (canbe aerosolized, solid, or liquid), radiation (or any other energyemission of interest), environmental allergens (e.g., airborneallergens).

In certain embodiments, sensor 200 provides assessment or monitoring ofa specific particulate matter. For example, sensor 200 may provideassessment or monitoring for a specific allergen to which a wearer ofgarment body 52 is highly allergic. In some embodiments, sensor 200provides assessment or monitoring of multiple particulate matters (e.g.,a combination of particulate matters). For example, in a laboratoryenvironment, sensor 200 may be capable of assessing or monitoring for acombination of radiation and hazardous chemicals.

In certain embodiments, sensor 200 provides visual indication of thepresence and/or concentration of particulate matter in the ambientenvironment surrounding garment body 52 (e.g., when the sensor isexposed to particulate matter). For example, sensor 200 may include achromatic (color changing) indicator that changes colors when the sensoris exposed to selected particulate matter (e.g., selected allergens orchemicals). In certain embodiments, sensor 200 is a panel that changescolors when the panel is exposed to a selected particulate matter. Insome embodiments, sensor 200 is a chemochromatic panel that changescolors when the panel is exposed to a selected chemical.

Sensor 200 may turn a selected color when the sensor is exposed to aselected particulate matter. For example, sensor 200 may turn red (orbright red) when exposed to a selected allergen or a selected hazardouschemical. Red may be used to indicate exposure as red is generallyrecognized as a warning signal color. In certain embodiments, sensor 200returns to its original (base) color if the sensor is no longer exposedto the selected particulate matter (e.g., when the allergen or hazardouschemical is no longer present in the ambient environment surroundinggarment body 52).

In certain embodiments, sensor 200 provides output data associated withthe assessment of particulate matter in the ambient environment surroundgarment body 52. Processor 114 (or another processor associated withgarment system 50) may be coupled to sensor 200 (e.g., either wired orwirelessly coupled) and receive output data from the sensor). Forexample, sensor 200 may output “false” or “true” signals based on astatus of detection of particulate matter where the “false” signalindicates there is no exposure to particulate matter of interest (e.g.,the selected particulate matter) and the “true” signal indicates thereis exposure to particulate matter of interest. Processor 114 may receivethe outputs and assess beginning and/or ending of exposure toparticulate matter based on the sequence of false/true signals. In someembodiments, the false/true signals are associated with indicator (e.g.,color) changes in sensor 200. For example, the false signal may beassociated with no color change (e.g., base color) where the true signalis associated with the color change (e.g., turn red) in sensor 200.

In certain embodiments, processor 114 assesses data received from sensor200 to assess a condition of the wearer (e.g., a medical condition ofthe wearer). Data received from sensor 200 may be combined with otherdata assessed by garment system 50″ to assess the condition of thewearer. For example, data received from sensor 200 may be combined withvital sign data and/or body position data assessed by garment system 50″to assess the condition of the wearer. Assessing data from sensor 200 incombination with other data assessed by garment system 50″ may provideinstantaneous feedback that may be used to proactively assess thecondition of the wearer of garment body 52. Garment system 50″ may becapable of rapid assessment of changes in the condition of the wearerbased on data from sensor 200 and other data such as vital signs, bodyposition, and other physiological information. In certain embodiments,signals (e.g., either wired or wireless signals) received at processor114 (including signals from sensor 200 and other vital sign and/or bodyposition data) are synchronized to be on the same clock (e.g., the samesystem clock for processor 114).

In certain embodiments, processor 114 transmits data from sensor 200(along with other data) to another device (e.g., a wireless radio enabledevice, a Wi-Fi device, or a Bluetooth device). Data received fromprocessor 114 may be displayed on the device using an application on thedevice (as described herein). In certain embodiments, the applicationmay display on the device data such as, but not limited to, real-timelocation of the wearer (e.g., via GPS data), vital sign data, data fromsensor 200 (e.g., environmental data), and other physiological data. Theapplication may also store data on the device so that the wearer's datahistory can be accessed. In some embodiments, the application maytransmit data for storage on a remote server (e.g., a cloud-basedserver).

In some embodiments, processor 114 and/or the application receiving datafrom the processor provide communications that notify one or moreentities of the assessed condition of wearer. For example, a medicalentity or a responsible party for the wearer may receive communicationsproviding the assessed condition of wearer. In some embodiments,processor 114 and/or the application receiving data from the processorprovide the assessed condition of the wearer to the entities when thecondition of the wearer is an alert condition. For example, when thewearer is assessed to be under duress or in a condition needing medicalattention, as described herein.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 21, garment system 50″ includesfluid delivery system 210. Fluid delivery system 210 may be used toprovide fluid injection into the body of the wearer of garment body 52.Fluid delivery system 210 may be, for example, a drug delivery system toprovide drug delivery into the body of the wearer (e.g., druginjection). In some embodiments, fluid delivery system 210 includes oneor more components on garment body 52 that are removable and/orreplaceable (e.g., the components can be removed and replaced afteruse). In some embodiments, fluid delivery system 210 is positioned undera patch or other emblem to cover and/or disguise the fluid deliverysystem. For example, fluid delivery system 210 may be positioned under apatch on the sleeve of garment body 52.

In certain embodiments, fluid delivery system 210 includes an injectorassembly. FIG. 22 depicts an exploded view representation of anembodiment of injector assembly 212. In certain embodiments, injectorassembly 212 includes trigger portion 214, piston portion 216, firstchamber 218, second chamber 220, and injector portion 222. Triggerportion 214 may include safety cap 224, trigger 226, and pin 228. Safetycap 224 may be a hinged safety cap that, when closed, preventsaccidental pushing of trigger 226. Trigger 226 may be coupled to pin 228such that moving the trigger moves the pin. For example, trigger 226 maybe a push button or other device that can be pushed to move pin 228towards piston portion 216.

Piston portion 216 may include pin 230, piston cylinder 232, piston 234,and piston base 236. In some embodiments, pin 230 and pin 228 areseparate pins that engage each other. In some embodiments, pin 230 andpin 228 are different portions of a single pin. A lower end of pin 230may be shaped to puncture an upper surface of piston seat 238. In someembodiments, pin 230 is supported by a spring and the force applied totrigger 226 has to overcome the spring force to allow pin 230 topuncture the upper surface of piston seat 238.

Piston seat 238 may include a CO2 or other pressurized gas cartridge.Puncturing of the surface of piston seat 238 may release the pressurizedgas from the piston seat. In some embodiments, the edges of piston seat238 are beveled. The beveled edges may provide a base for a gas/reactionchamber in space 240 (e.g., the space between piston seat 238 and pistoncylinder 232). When pressurized gas is released in space 240, theincrease in pressure in the space moves piston 234 and piston base 236downwards towards first chamber 218.

FIG. 23 depicts a representation of an alternative embodiment of pistonportion 216′. Piston portion 216′ may include post 241 and spring 243inside piston cylinder 232. Spring 243 may provide force to move piston234 and piston base 236 downwards towards first chamber 218 when trigger226 is operated.

As shown in FIG. 22, piston 234 and piston base 236 may move downwardstowards first chamber 218 when trigger 226 is operated. First chamber218 may be, for example, a capsule or other container that containsfluids (e.g., drugs) intended for injection into the wearer's body.Piston base 236 may function as the upper surface or top of firstchamber 218. Thus, when piston base 236 moves downwards, the piston basemay move fluids out of first chamber 218 through output port 242 in thebottom of the first chamber. In certain embodiments, the bottom ofpiston base 236 is flat. The bottom of piston base 236 may, however,have other shapes (e.g., convex) depending on the needs for movingfluids out of first chamber 218.

In some embodiments, output port 242 is an opening with a semipermeablemembrane covering the opening. The membrane may have a selected surfacetension that is overcome by the pressure of piston base 236 movingfluids out of first chamber 218. In some embodiments, output port 242includes a one-way valve that opens with the force generated by pistonbase 236 moving fluids out of first chamber 218.

As fluids move out of first chamber 218 through output port 242, thefluids may move into second chamber 220 through input port 244. Inputport 244 may include an opening with a semipermeable membrane or aone-way valve similar to output port 242. In certain embodiments, theforce needed to move fluids through input port 244 is less than theforce needed to move fluids through output port 242. For example, theforce needed to move fluids through input port 244 may be about 80% ofthe force needed to move fluids through output port 242.

Fluids may be moved out of second chamber 220 through output port 246.Output port 246 may include an opening with a semipermeable membrane ora one-way valve similar to output port 242 and input port 244. The forceneeded to move fluids through output port 246 may less than the forceneeded to move fluids through output port 242. For example, the forceneeded to move fluids through output port 246 may be about 10% of theforce needed to move fluids through output port 242. In certainembodiments, second chamber 220 is cone shaped. The cone shape of secondchamber 220 may increase the forces on the fluids as the fluids move outof the second chamber.

Fluids may be moved through output port 246 into injector portion 222.Injector portion 222 may include injection tube 248. In certainembodiments, injection tube 248 has a diameter of between about 0.03 mmand about 0.06 mm The diameter of injection tube 248 may be selected toprovide the ability to inject fluids through the skin of the wearer ofgarment body 52. Other diameters for injection tube 248 may also becontemplated depending on the type of fluids to be injected. In certainembodiments, injector portion 222 has floor 250 with recess 252 belowthe floor. Recess 252 may be on the bottom portion of the exterior ofinjector portion 222 that contacts the skin of the wearer. Recess 252may be shaped (e.g., have concave walls) such that when injector portion222 is pressed against the skin of the wearer, at least some skin fillsinto the recess. Skin filling recess 252 may provide increasedlikelihood of successful injection of fluid into the body of the wearer.

As shown in FIG. 22, when trigger 226 is pressed, injector assembly 212operates to inject fluids (e.g., drugs) positioned in primary chamber218 into the body of the wearer. When trigger 226 is pressed, fluids areforced into injection tube 248 by the downward force of piston base 236.Downward forces are also applied to injection tube 248. When activated,the forces at the end of injection tube 248 contacting the skin of thewearer may be sufficient to overcome the ultimate tensile strength (UTS)of dermal and subcutaneous tissue in the skin of the wearer (e.g., theforce at the end of the injection tube is at least about 3200 psi).Overcoming the tensile strength of the tissue allows the fluids to beinjected into the body of the wearer a sufficient depth for the fluidsto enter the bloodstream.

In certain embodiments, injector assembly 212 is coupled to garment body52 at the location of a port or other opening in the garment body (e.g.,a port in the sleeve of the garment body). The port may allow contactbetween injector assembly 212 and the skin of the wearer of garment body52. The port may be integrated in garment body 52. In some embodiments,the port includes a mechanism for coupling injector assembly 212 togarment body 52. The mechanism may also secure injector assembly 212 togarment body 52.

FIG. 24 depicts a representation of an embodiment of port 254. Port 254may be integrated in garment body 52 to provide access to the skin ofthe wearer of the garment body for fluid delivery system 210. Port 254may include base 256. In certain embodiments, base 256 is embedded ingarment body 52 (e.g., embedded in the fabric of the garment body).

Base 256 may be made of semi-rigid, non-permeable material such aspolycarbonate. Base 256 may include opening 258. Opening 258 may besized to accommodate a nozzle or other injector for delivery of fluidsbeneath the skin of the wearer. For example, opening 258 may be sized toaccommodate injection tube 248 of injector assembly 212. In someembodiments, opening 258 has a size between about 0.05 mm and about 0 20mm, between about 0.07 mm and about 0.19 mm, or between about 0.09 mmand about 0.18 mm

In certain embodiments, port 254 includes gasket 260, receiver 262, andlock 264. Gasket 260 may be, for example, a sponge gasket or similarmaterial. Receiver 262 and lock 264 may be made of semi-rigid, or rigid,non-permeable materials such as polycarbonate. Receiver 262 may includekeyholes 266, key seats 268, and key stops 270 distributed around thereceiver. Lock 264 may include teeth 272 and opening 274. Opening 274may be sized to accommodate a nozzle (e.g., injection tube 248) fordelivery of fluids beneath the skin of the wearer.

In certain embodiments, receiver 262 is coupled to base 256 with gasket260. Lock 264 may then operate with receiver 262 to couple injectorassembly 212 to port 254. For example, lock 264 may be seated onreceiver 262 and rotated in the direction of the arrow to engage teeth272 with key seats 268 and secure the lock to the receiver. In someembodiments, injector assembly 212 may include arms 276 (shown in FIGS.22 and 23) that interact with receiver 262 and lock 264 to secure theinjector assembly to port 254. Securing injector assembly 212 to port254 attaches the injector assembly to garment body 52.

As described above, injector assembly 212 may be used in fluid deliverysystem 210 to inject fluids (e.g., drugs) into the wearer of garmentbody 52. In certain embodiments, injector assembly 212 is a single useinjector (e.g., the injector assembly is disposable). After fluids areinjected into the wearer from injector assembly 212, the injectorassembly may be removed from garment body 52 (e.g., decoupled from port254) and then discarded or recycled. In some embodiments, a new injectorassembly is coupled to garment body 52 (e.g., coupled to port 254) aftera used injector assembly is removed. Thus, garment body 52 may be reusedfor multiple injection assemblies as needed by the wearer of the garmentbody.

In certain embodiments, activation of injector assembly 212 iscontrolled by processor 114 (or another processor associated withgarment system 50). Processor 114 may control activation of injectorassembly 212 based on the assessed condition of the wearer of garmentbody 52 (e.g., the assessed medical condition of the wearer). Asdescribed herein, assessing the condition of the wearer may includeassessing vital signs and/or body position of the wearer using garmentsystem 50 along with assessing ambient environmental conditions usingsensor 200. Processor 114 may assess the combination of vital signs,body position, and/or ambient environmental conditions to determine ifthe wearer is in a condition or state (e.g., a medical condition orstate) that necessitates the injection of fluids (e.g., drugs) frominjector assembly 212 into the wearer's body. For example, processor 114may determine if the wearer is simply in an excited state (e.g., due toexercise), where injection of fluids is not needed, or the wearer is ina medical emergency state (e.g., due to an allergic reaction), where theinjection of drugs (e.g., epinephrine) may be life-saving.

In some embodiments, processor 114 controls activation of injectorassembly 212 by controlling access to trigger 226. For example, safetycap 224 may be prevented from being opened to access trigger 226 by anelectronic latch or lock unless processor 114 detects that the assessedcondition of the wearer necessitates the injection of fluids frominjector assembly 212. Controlling access to the activation mechanism(e.g., trigger 226) of injector assembly 212 may prevent the injectionof fluids (e.g., drugs) into the wearer's body in non-necessarycircumstances (e.g., when the wearer is simply in an excited state dueto exercise).

FIG. 25 depicts a flowchart of an embodiment of control method 400 usinggarment system 50. Method 400 may be used to assess the condition (e.g.,medical condition) of the wearer to determine if the wearer needsmedical attention and/or if injector assembly 212 should be allowed tobe used for injection of fluids into the wearer's body. In certainembodiments, method 400 is implemented by processor 114 (or anotherprocessor associated with garment system 50).

In 402, garment system 50 detects if the heart rate of the wearer ofgarment body 52 is elevated. For example, a heart rate monitorintegrated in garment body 52 may be used to assess the heart rate ofthe wearer. If the heart rate is not elevated, method 400 continues withdetermining if respiration is elevated in 404. If respiration is notelevated, then SpO2 levels are assessed to see if they in a normal rangein 406. If SpO2 levels are not normal (e.g., are below normal levels),then presence of selected particulate matter (e.g., allergen) isassessed in 408 (e.g., assess color change in sensor 200). If noselected particulate matter is detected, then the condition of thewearer is determined to be normal and no further action is taken in 410.If selected particulate matter is detected in 408 (but without anyelevated vital signs), then a monitor vital signs signal and warning maybe provided in 412 and respiration and SpO2 may continue to be monitoredin 414 and 416. Monitoring of respiration and SpO2 may be monitoredafter detection of selected particulate matter due to the possibility ofa delayed reaction to the particulate matter.

If respiration is determined to be elevated in 404 after a non-elevatedheart rate is determined, this may indicate that the wearer is in apotentially heightened condition. In such cases, both SpO2 level (in416) and selected particulate matter detection (in 418) may need to bedetermined in addition to the respiration level to assess the conditionof the wearer. Similarly, if SpO2 level is determined to be below normalin 406 after a non-elevated respiration level is determined in 404, thismay indicate that the wearer is in a potentially heightened condition.In this case, selected particulate matter detection (in 418) may need tobe determined to assess the condition of the wearer. It is to beunderstood that while the embodiment of method 400 described above isdescribed with a logical flow (e.g., 402 then 404 then 406), the logicalflow of method 400 may vary as allowable. For example, the logical flowmay include 404 then 402 then 406 or any other logical flow that isreasonably to apply to method 400.

As shown by the process flow in FIG. 25, if the detection of selectedparticulate matter in 418 is positive (“Yes”) along with a combinationof one more the other factors of elevated heart rate, elevatedrespiration, or low SpO2 levels, then the body position or motion of thewearer may be assessed in 420. If the wearer is detected to be static(e.g., no motion or movement of the body), then a high probability ofexposure is assessed in 422 and method 400 may proceed with a treatmentprotocol in box 400A. If the wearer is detected to be moving (e.g., notstatic), then method 400 may cycle back to the monitor vital signssignal and warning provided in 412. In some embodiments, assessing bodyposition in 420 may include assessing a posture of the wearer. Forexample, is the wearer hunched over, standing upright, sifting, etc.

In certain embodiments, processor 114 outputs a signal providing anindication of the assessed condition of the wearer. The signal may be,for example, a visual signal and/or a signal provided to the applicationassociated with garment system 50. The signal may indicate a level ofthe assessed condition of the wearer. For example, is the wearer in awarning state (such as provided in 412 above), in an alert state (wherethe wearer is a more alarmed condition), or an emergency state (wheremedical attention is likely needed). In some embodiments, the signalprovided is based on the number of biometric measurements that aredetermined to be in stressed states in combination with environmentaldetection by sensor 200.

FIG. 26 depicts a representation of an embodiment of conditions neededfor different signal levels. For the “Warning” level, sensor 200 detectsthe selected particulate matter (“Sensor+”) in combination with 0-1 ofthe selected biometric measurements indicating possible stressed statesfor the wearer. The selected biometric measurements may be “+HR”(elevated heart rate), “+EKG” (raised EKG monitoring), “+RESP” (elevatedrespiration rate), “+SP02” (low SPO2 level), “−Motion” (static or littlemotion of wearer), and “+AWN”. The “Warning” level may indicate that thewearer's vital signs/biometrics are acceptable, but he/she should bemonitored for potential changes in condition.

The “Alert” level may be a raised level from the “Warning” level. Forthe “Alert” level, sensor 200 detects the selected particulate matter incombination with 2-3 of the selected biometric measurements. At the“Alert” level, the condition of the wearer needs to be more closelymonitored as the condition could change rapidly. For the “Emergency”level, sensor 200 detects the selected particulate matter in combinationwith 3 or more of the selected biometric measurements. At the“Emergency” level, the wearer needs medical attention and garment system50 may start providing notification and following protocol to providetreatment for the wearer.

In certain embodiments, the treatment protocol in box 400A, shown inFIG. 25, includes providing notification of the condition of the wearerand operating steps for the activation and use of injection assembly 212to inject fluids into the wearer's body. Notification sequence 424 mayinclude, for example, providing an output indicative of the assessedcondition (e.g., the assessed medical alert condition) of the wearer. Incertain embodiments, notification sequence 424 includes, in 426,providing information (e.g., an urgent condition notification) to anapplication associated with garment system 50 (e.g., an app on a mobiledevice connected to processor 114). The application may provide thenotification of the urgent condition of the wearer to one or moreentities. For example, the notification may be provided to a hospital, aguardian, or another caretaker. In 428, notification along with medicalinformation for the wearer may be provided to emergency personnel (e.g.,paramedics or EMTs) that may then transport the patient to a medicalfacility or other location.

The operating steps for activation and use of injection assembly 212 mayinclude releasing an electric safety for the injection assembly in 430.Releasing the electric safety may include processor 114 removing theelectronic lock or latch that prevents opening of safety cap 224. In432, safety cap 224 may be manually opened to access trigger 226. In434, injection of fluids may be provided by operating trigger 226. In436, the injection may be documented. Documentation of the injection mayalso be provided to the notification sequence so that the entities areaware that the injection has taken place.

The following non-limiting examples are provided for different scenariosin which processor 114 assesses the condition of the wearer and theprocessor allows or prevents access to activation of injector assembly212.

First Example Scenario

The wearer of garment system 50 is an 11-year old boy with a known beeallergy. The boy is playing (e.g., at recess at school). Garment system50 detects that the boy has a respiration rate of 35 and sinustachycardia with a heart rate of 175 bpm. SpO2 saturation is at 94% witha decrease of 6% from the baseline in the last three minutes. The GPSmonitor indicates movement on a school playground and sensor 200 (e.g.,the chemochromatic sensor) is reading false (e.g., no detection ofselected particulate matter). Motion sensors on garment body 52 indicatethat the boy is running with sudden stops, punctuated by intermittentthrowing motions. Garment system 50 assesses these inputs to determinewith a high degree of certainty that the changes in physiological outputfor the boy are likely due to exercise. Thus, no alert is sent bygarment system 50.

Second Example Scenario

The wearer of garment system 50 is an 8-year old girl with a known foodallergy. The girl is sifting in class during snack time. Garment system50 detects that the girl has a respiration rate of 32 that has increaseover 70% from her typical baseline. The cardiac monitor shows sinustachycardia with a rate of 145 bpm, which shows an increase from abaseline of 75 bpm in the last 5 minutes. SpO2 saturation is 92% andfalling. The GPS monitor shows the girl is not moving and is inside ofher school. Processor 114 may assess that there is a high likelihoodthat the girl is in snack time in her classroom. Sensor 200 is readingtrue indicating that the girl has been exposed to the selectedparticulate matter (e.g., the food allergen). Motion sensors on garmentbody 52 indicate that the girl is in a static position and she has ahunched posture.

Garment system 50 assesses these inputs to determine with a high degreeof certainty that the vital signs indicate physical stress associatedwith the onset of anaphylaxis. An alert may be sent by processor 114(e.g., through a mobile application connected to the processor) to apredetermined set of entities including the parents or other guardians.Processor 114 may also notify a preferred local health facility (e.g.,emergency room) and an emergency dispatch for an ambulance. Medicalinformation about the condition of the girl may be provided along withthe notifications. At the health facility, a physician (e.g., an on-callphysician) may review the biometric data, generate a differentialdiagnosis for suspected anaphylaxis, and prepare for the girl's arrival.

At the same time, an adult (e.g., a teach or supervisor) in theclassroom with knowledge of the girl's allergy may notice something iswrong and sensor 200 may provide visual indication that the girl hasbeen exposed to the food allergen. Processor 114 may release theelectronic latch or lock on injector assembly 200 and allow the adult tooperate the injector assembly to administer the drug (e.g., epinephrine)into the girl's body. The health facility, the parents, and the arrivingemergency transport personnel (e.g., paramedics) are alerted that thegirl has been injected with the drug. At arrival, the paramedics maycontinue to monitor with traditional equipment and chart the girl andthe injection of the drug as they prepare for and conduct transport tothe health facility.

FIGS. 27-29 depict an embodiment of garment system 50′″. Garment system50 may be used to assess biometric properties of a wearer of the garmentsystem. The embodiment of garment system 50—depicted in FIGS. 27-29 isshown to include conductive elastic material (e.g., strands or fibers ofa conductive elastomer) in garment body 52. It is to be understood thatgarment system 50—may include other components of garment systemsdepicted herein (e.g., garment systems 50, 50′, or 50″) and that thecomponents of garment system 50—are interchangeable with components ofthe other garment systems described herein. It should also be understoodthat garment system 50—may be used in embodiments intended for use inthe detection and/or treatment of medical conditions and/or inembodiments intended solely for the assessment of biometric properties.

FIG. 27 depicts an anterior view representation of the embodiment ofgarment system 50′″. FIG. 28 depicts a posterior view representation ofthe embodiment of garment system 50′″. In certain embodiments, theanterior and posterior sides of garment body 52 include vertical strips160. Vertical strips 160 may be, for example, strips of conductiveelastic material. The anterior and posterior sides of garment body 52may also include transverse strips 162. Transverse strips 162 may be,for example, at an approximately 45° angle. Transverse strips 162 mayalso include strips of conductive elastic material in garment body 52.

In certain embodiments, vertical strips 160 are used to assess (e.g.,measure) sagittal plane flexion and/or extension of the wearer ofgarment body 52. Transverse strips 162 may be used to assess (e.g.,measure) asymmetrical expansion and/or rotation of the wearer of garmentbody 52. Vertical strips 160 and transverse strips 162 may measure theseproperties using techniques described herein for conductive elasticmaterials (e.g., assessment of resistance and/or strain in thematerials).

FIG. 29 depicts a side view representation of the embodiment of garmentsystem 50′″. In certain embodiments, the lateral sides of garment body52 include vertical strips 164 (with a second strip being on theopposite side of the garment body shown in FIG. 29). Vertical strips 164may include strips of conductive elastic material in garment body 52. Incertain embodiments, vertical strips 164 are used to assess (e.g.,measure) lateral flexion and/or extension of the wearer of garment body52.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 27-29, garment body 52includes bands 166. Bands 166 may be, for example, barrel bands thatencompass the circumference of garment body 52 (e.g., the bands coverthe circumference of the body of the wearer of the garment body). Bands166 may include conductive elastic material in garment body 52. Incertain embodiments, bands 166 are used to assess (e.g., measure)expansion of the body wall of the wearer of garment body 52.

In certain embodiments, vertical strips 160, transverse strips 162,vertical strips 164, and/or bands 166 are connected to monitoring sites116. For example, monitoring sites may be located at each end of thestrips or at one or more locations along the bands. Monitoring sites 116may be used to receive and/or transmit data from the strips and bands(e.g., transmit to and/or receive from a processor on garment body 52).

The combination of measurements from vertical strips 160, transversestrips 162, vertical strips 164, and bands 166 may be used to determinea three-dimensional image of motion of the wearer of garment body 52.The three-dimensional motion image may be combined with othermeasurement to provide an overall biometric assessment of the wearer ofgarment body 52. For example, the overall biometric assessment mayinclude assessment of motion, body position, physical movement, and/orvital signs of the wearer.

FIG. 30 depicts a block diagram of one embodiment of exemplary computersystem 510. Exemplary computer system 510 may be used to implement oneor more embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, computersystem 510 is operable by a user to implement one or more embodimentsdescribed herein such as communication between processor 114 and amobile device. In the embodiment of FIG. 30, computer system 510includes processor 512, memory 514, and various peripheral devices 516.Processor 512 is coupled to memory 514 and peripheral devices 516.Processor 512 is configured to execute instructions, including theinstructions for communication between garment system 50 and a mobiledevice, which may be in software. In various embodiments, processor 512may implement any desired instruction set (e.g. Intel Architecture-32(IA-32, also known as x86), IA-32 with 64-bit extensions, x86-64,PowerPC, Sparc, MIPS, ARM, IA-64, etc.). In some embodiments, computersystem 510 may include more than one processor. Moreover, processor 512may include one or more processors or one or more processor cores.

Processor 512 may be coupled to memory 514 and peripheral devices 516 inany desired fashion. For example, in some embodiments, processor 512 maybe coupled to memory 514 and/or peripheral devices 516 via variousinterconnect. Alternatively or in addition, one or more bridge chips maybe used to coupled processor 512, memory 514, and peripheral devices516.

Memory 514 may comprise any type of memory system. For example, memory514 may comprise DRAM, and more particularly double data rate (DDR)SDRAM, RDRAM, etc. A memory controller may be included to interface tomemory 514, and/or processor 512 may include a memory controller. Memory514 may store the instructions to be executed by processor 512 duringuse, data to be operated upon by the processor during use, etc.

Peripheral devices 516 may represent any sort of hardware devices thatmay be included in computer system 510 or coupled thereto (e.g., storagedevices, optionally including computer accessible storage medium 520,shown in FIG. 31, other input/output (I/O) devices such as videohardware, audio hardware, user interface devices, networking hardware,etc.).

Turning now to FIG. 31, a block diagram of one embodiment of computeraccessible storage medium 520 including one or more data structuresrepresentative of garment system 50 included in an integrated circuitdesign and one or more code sequences representative of communicationbetween garment system 50 and a mobile device. Each code sequence mayinclude one or more instructions, which when executed by a processor ina computer, implement the operations described for the correspondingcode sequence. Generally speaking, a computer accessible storage mediummay include any storage media accessible by a computer during use toprovide instructions and/or data to the computer. For example, acomputer accessible storage medium may include non-transitory storagemedia such as magnetic or optical media, e.g., disk (fixed orremovable), tape, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, orBlu-Ray. Storage media may further include volatile or non-volatilememory media such as RAM (e.g. synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), RambusDRAM (RDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), etc.), ROM, or Flash memory. Thestorage media may be physically included within the computer to whichthe storage media provides instructions/data. Alternatively, the storagemedia may be connected to the computer. For example, the storage mediamay be connected to the computer over a network or wireless link, suchas network attached storage. The storage media may be connected througha peripheral interface such as the Universal Serial Bus (USB).Generally, computer accessible storage medium 500 may store data in anon-transitory manner, where non-transitory in this context may refer tonot transmitting the instructions/data on a signal. For example,non-transitory storage may be volatile (and may lose the storedinstructions/data in response to a power down) or non-volatile.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be realized in any of variousforms. For example, some embodiments may be realized as acomputer-implemented method, a computer-readable memory medium, or acomputer system. Other embodiments may be realized using one or morecustom-designed hardware devices such as ASICs. Other embodiments may berealized using one or more programmable hardware elements such as FPGAs(field programmable gate arrays).

In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable memory mediummay be configured so that it stores program instructions and/or data,where the program instructions, if executed by a computer system, causethe computer system to perform a method, e.g., any method embodimentsdescribed herein, or, any combination of the method embodimentsdescribed herein, or, any subset of any of the method embodimentsdescribed herein, or, any combination of such subsets.

In some embodiments, a wireless device (or wireless station) may beconfigured to include a processor (or a set of processors) and a memorymedium, where the memory medium stores program instructions, where theprocessor is configured to read and execute the program instructionsfrom the memory medium, where the program instructions are executable tocause the wireless device to implement any of the various methodembodiments described herein (or, any combination of the methodembodiments described herein, or, any subset of any of the methodembodiments described herein, or, any combination of such subsets). Thedevice may be realized in any of various forms.

In embodiments described herein, operating systems utilized by any partof garment system 50 may include, but not be limited to: iOS operatingsystems, Windows Phone operating systems, Windows operating systems,Android operating systems, BlackBerry operating systems, Linux systems,and Unison operating systems.

In embodiments described herein, any of the electronic components ofgarment system 50 may include a waterproof coating (e.g., a waterproofnanocoating) adhered to the exterior of the electronic components. Thecoating may allow for the components to function properly when garmentsystem 50 is exposed to a wet environment that may include sweat and/orwater.

In embodiments described herein, wiring connecting two or moreelectronic components found in garment system 50 may be contained withina multi-layered fabric construction. In some embodiments, the wiring maybe partially engrained within seams in garment body 52. In someembodiments, the wiring may comprise conductive fibers. The conductivefibers may be in the form of one or more yarns woven or knit with otherfibers. In some embodiments, the yarns may be coated with an insulativepolymer to, for example, provide efficient transfer of power or data.

In embodiments described herein, garment system 50 may be capable ofmonitoring multiple biometric responses such as, but not limited to—skintemperature, core temperature, respirations, heart rate, predicted tidalvolume, chest wall movement, abdominal movement in conjunction withinspiration, abdominal movement in conjunction with expiration, HRR(heart rate reserve), HRV (heart rate variability), body positionrelevant to perpendicular, shoulder position relevant to hip position,general body posture, up time, down time, and malfunctions.

In embodiments described herein, garment system 50 may be capable ofmonitoring multiple biometric peripheral processes through BluetoothSmart or similar. These biometric peripheral processes may include, butnot be limited to: DTR, eye movement, eye position, reflex velocity,visual tracking, visual focal points, tactile response, and skinconductivity.

In embodiments described herein, garment system 50 may be a garmentother than a shirt. These other garments may include any of thestructures and/or functionalities described herein. In some embodiments,fabric within garment body 50 may include a twill weave. The twill weavemay provide a better form fitting structure to the body by allowing thegarment body to succumb easier to flexing or folding to match the curvesof a body.

As described herein, the term “garment” may refer to a belt in someembodiments. As described herein, the terms “garment”, “garment system”,and “system 50” may be synonymous. As described herein, the terms“respiration/skeletal position monitors”, “RMSs”, and “respirationmonitoring sites” may be synonymous. As described herein, the terms“respiration monitor sub-system” and “respiration monitoring sub-system”may be synonymous. As described herein, the terms “battery unit” and“battery” may be synonymous.

Although specific embodiments have been described above, theseembodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the presentdisclosure, even where only a single embodiment is described withrespect to a particular feature. Examples of features provided in thedisclosure are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictiveunless stated otherwise. The above description is intended to cover suchalternatives, modifications, and equivalents as would be apparent to aperson skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The scope of the present disclosure includes any feature or combinationof features disclosed herein (either explicitly or implicitly), or anygeneralization thereof, whether or not it mitigates any or all of theproblems addressed herein. Accordingly, new claims may be formulatedduring prosecution of this application (or an application claimingpriority thereto) to any such combination of features. In particular,with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claimsmay be combined with those of the independent claims and features fromrespective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate mannerand not merely in the specific combinations enumerated in the appendedclaims.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects ofthe embodiments described in this disclosure will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, thisdescription is to be construed as illustrative only and is for thepurpose of teaching those skilled in the art the general manner ofcarrying out the embodiments. It is to be understood that the forms ofthe embodiments shown and described herein are to be taken as thepresently preferred embodiments. Elements and materials may besubstituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts andprocesses may be reversed, and certain features of the embodiments maybe utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one skilled inthe art after having the benefit of this description. Changes may bemade in the elements described herein without departing from the spiritand scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: a fabric comprising aconductive elastic material; a monitoring sensor integrated into thefabric and coupled to the conductive elastic material; a processorcoupled to the fabric, wherein the processor is configured to performoperations, the operations comprising: receiving location data from themonitoring sensor integrated into the fabric; determining a movement ofa wearer of the fabric based on the location data; and generating, basedon the movement, an image indicating a body position of the wearer. 2.The system of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprisedetermining the body position of the wearer based on the location dataand the movement.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the operationsfurther comprise determining the body position of the wearer relative toan object.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations furthercomprise causing a current to run through the fabric comprising theconductive elastic material.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein theoperations further comprise assigning a time stamp at a point in timethat the current is received by the monitoring sensor.
 6. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the operations further comprise assessing a biometricproperty of the wearer of the fabric based on sensor data measured bythe monitoring sensor integrated into the fabric.
 7. The system of claim1, wherein the operations further comprise assessing an environmentalcondition in an ambient environment associated with the wearer of thefabric.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations furthercomprise detecting particulate matter in an ambient environmentassociated with the wearer of the fabric.
 9. The system of claim 8,wherein the operations further comprise facilitating a change in acharacteristic of the monitoring sensor upon detection by the monitoringsensor of the particulate matter.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise assessing a condition of the wearer of thefabric.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the operations furthercomprise transmitting a notification to a remote device indicating thecondition of the wearer of the fabric.
 12. The system of claim 1,wherein the operations further comprise determining if the wearer is ina state that necessitates an injection of a fluid.
 13. A method,comprising: receiving, at a processor integrated into a fabric, locationdata from a monitoring sensor integrated into the fabric; determining,by utilizing the processor, a movement of a wearer of the fabric basedon the location data; and providing, based on the movement, an imageindicating a body position of the wearer.
 14. The method of claim 13,further comprising determining a vital sign of the wearer of the fabricbased on sensor data from the monitoring sensor.
 15. The method of claim13, further comprising assessing a biometric property of the wearerbased on sensor data provided by the monitoring sensor.
 16. The methodof claim 13, further comprising providing an assessment of the bodyposition of the wearer.
 17. The method of claim 13, further comprisingintegrating conductive flexible fibers into the fabric.
 18. The methodof claim 13, further comprising outputting an alert based on an assessedcondition of the wearer of the fabric.
 19. The method of claim 13,further comprising activating an injection assembly for injecting asubstance into the wearer based on an assessed condition of the wearer.20. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions,which, when loaded and executed by a processor integrated into a fabric,cause the processor to perform operations, the operations comprising:receiving location data from a monitoring sensor integrated into thefabric; determining motion of a wearer of the fabric based on thelocation data; and providing, based on the motion, an image indicating abody position of the wearer.